Silver Linings

Nunez Auditorium rocked with the  premier performance of our senior acting troupe, the Silver Linings – a sold out hit – in August 2011.

The USO type variety show went on, thanks to the funding of Rita Gue and the Meraux Foundation, the talent of Barry Lemoine and the Voices Foundation, and the participation of the Council on Aging.

The Silver Linings is the long envisioned theatre program for seniors, showcasing their talent and uniting them in a fun and creative way.  The troupe’s debut performance was National Senior Citizens Day, August 21st, 2011

Funded through a grant from the Meraux Foundation, the pilot program honors the wishes of Gue’s late aunt, Arlene Meraux.

“My aunt’s focus was really on helping children and senior citizens. And while the Foundation has done a lot for the students of the community, I felt like we should do something new for the seniors.  That’s why I’m so excited by the Silver Linings.  I know this is just the start,” Gue said.

Susan McNeil, the director of the St. Bernard Council on Aging, said that  over 20 of its members participated, while a number of others worked\g behind the scenes.  “I told them this was a history-making program. “

Silver Lining troupe members are Gloria Ciaccio, Judy Landwehr, Rita Gorcoran, Joann Constance, Shirley Campbell, Evelyn Hawkins, Judy Gutierrez, Ruby Micheu, and Albert &Gerry Avenel.

Staff members of the troupe are Barry Lemoine, Director;   Brooke Steele, Choreographer;  Bill Haines, photographer; Chris Haines & Katherine Lemoine Production Assistants;  Arleen Hughes & Dave Dessens, Set Design; Chris Bordelon & Alan Rocha, Technical Directors;  Bri Acoasta & Courtney Burton, Tech Crew.

Lemoine, who has produced shows for Shine Productions and the Voices Foundation,  quickly added the production is “Historical and hysterical.”

Lemoine  has done shows for the seniors before, but the Silver Linings is his first time working with seniors on stage.  “I’ve been wanting to do this, even before the storm, and now to have the funding and the support to make it happen – it’s all coming together.  Now all we need is a venue to give our Silver Linings a chance to shine.”

The Cast of Silver Linings Variety Show